Different Types of Committees


Standing Committee- formed by the House & Senate which are permanent legislative panels. Address issues in where major laws fall, including the budget and armed services.

Select/Special Committee- created to perform a specific duty that is beyond the authority and capacity of the standing committee.

Joint Committee- formed when the issue affects both the House and the Senate. Ex- Taxation advises Congress on tax policy.


Conference Committee- started so that the House and Senate can resolve differences between the versions of a bill.



List of Standing Committees

  • Armed Services
  • Education & Labor
  • Foreign Affairs
  • Homeland Security
  • Transportation & Infrastructure
  • Veterans' Affairs
  • Ways and Means

How are members assigned to a committee?


  1. Some members request certain assignments, but not all are fulfilled
  2. Some pick based on personal interests, constituents, or politically powerful
  3. Final assignments are voted on by the party caucus
  4. House members can serve on up to two standing committees



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